By Dr. Dorothy Kennedy, President, Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society
Rhododendron lovers, gardeners, and the simply garden-curious will want to mark Saturday, May 2 on their calendars. The Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society will hold its annual plant sale at the Hub in Cowichan Station, offering more than 150 rare and unusual rhododendrons, along with a selection of companion plants for creating a beautiful and healthy woodland garden. The sale runs from 10 am to 2 pm, but come early for the best selection.
More Than a Plant Sale
This is not just a plant sale — it is a chance to learn from people who know and love rhododendrons. Knowledgeable CVRS members will be on hand to answer questions, help with plant selection, and offer practical advice on siting, soil, pruning, fertilizing, and general garden care. Visitors can also learn more about the Society, join the club, and browse used garden carts and informative gardening books.
Whether you are looking for a compact plant for a smaller garden, a showy specimen for a shady corner, or something a little out of the ordinary, this is a wonderful opportunity to find plants not commonly available in garden centres.
Open Garden at Echoes of Nature
The rhododendron season continues two weeks later, on Saturday, May 16, when CVRS hosts an open garden at Verna Buhler’s Echoes of Nature Garden, 3908 Lake Cowichan Road, from 10:30 am to 2 pm. Entry is by donation, with proceeds supporting CVRS operations and outreach.
This beloved garden features more than 600 rhododendrons in an inspiring setting sure to delight gardeners of all experience levels. Everyone is welcome to come, explore the garden, admire the spring bloom, ask questions, and receive expert advice in one of the Cowichan Valley’s unique garden spaces.
“More than just a garden — it is my sanctuary. Alive with birds, bees, and blossoms, the garden includes not only rhododendrons, but also fruit trees, berry patches, and vegetable plots that nourish both body and spirit.”
— Verna Buhler
Verna adds: “I love sharing Nature’s beauty with others, and I am delighted to invite the public to experience the gifts it offers — the peace, abundance, and the wonder of hundreds of blooms, such as ‘Nancy Evans’ opening for our delight.”
Event Details
Annual Plant Sale
Saturday, May 2, 2026 · 10 am–2 pm
The HUB at Cowichan Station, 2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan
www.cowichanrhodos.ca
Spring Open Garden – Echoes of Nature
Saturday, May 16, 2026 · 10:30 am–2 pm
3908 Lake Cowichan Road
Entry by donation